A well-stocked first-aid kit can help you respond effectively to common injuries, accidents and emergencies.
Put these in each of your first-aid kits:
Plasters in a variety of different sizes and shapes
Small, medium and large sterile gauze dressings
Sterile water, saline (saltwater), or irrigation solution and a large syringe for washing cuts
Sterile gauze pads of different sizes
Triangular bandages
Crêpe rolled bandages
Safety pins
Disposable sterile gloves
Tweezers
Scissors
Alcohol-free cleansing/ antiseptic wipes
Sticky tape
Thermometer (preferably digital)
Skin rash cream, such as hydrocortisone or calendula
Cream or spray to relieve insect bites and stings
Antiseptic cream
Antiseptic solution (like hydrogen peroxide)
Painkillers such as paracetamol (or infant paracetamol for children), aspirin (not to be given to children under 16), or ibuprofen
Antihistamine cream or tablets
Distilled water for cleaning wounds
Eye wash and eye bath
An eye shield
Tooth preservation kit
A mouthpiece for giving CPR
Soap
Disposable instant cold packs
Hand sanitiser
A flashlight and extra batteries
An up-to-date first-aid manual
A list of emergency phone numbers
Keep medicines your family might need in your kit, such as:
Antibiotic ointment
Hydrocortisone cream (1%)
Calamine lotion
Acetaminophen and ibuprofen
An antihistamine (anti-itch medicine), like benadryl, zyrtec, claritin, or store brands
Extra prescription medicines (if you're traveling)
Medicine syringes and cups
After you've stocked your first-aid kits:
Read the first-aid manual so you'll understand how to use what's in your kits. (If your kids are old enough to understand, review the main points with them.) Read the manual from time to time and check to see if it is up to date.
Store first-aid kits out of children's reach but where adults can easily get them.
Check the kits regularly. Replace missing items or anything that has expired.
Make sure babysitters and other caregivers know where the kit is and how to use it.
Check the flashlight batteries to make sure they work.
If you're flying, pack the first-aid kit in your checked luggage. Many of the items won't be permitted in carry-on bags.
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